Lima, Peru is home to two different zoos that both offer a wide variety of both domestic and exotic animals. Each zoo also has other exhibits and educational opportunities available, and plenty of activities that can make for a great day of fun for your family.
Parque de las Leyendas, or Legends Park, is Lima’s original zoo and offers many different activities that are fun for kids and interesting for adults. The zoo is built on the site of the largest and most well preserved archeological zone in Lima, the Maranga Archeological Complex, and features a museum that has mummies and other artifacts on display. There is also a museum that offers educational information on petroleum exploration and production, and another that features a butterfly exhibit.
The zoological section itself has four parts; 3 of them are based on Peru’s coast, jungle and mountain regions, and the fourth features exotic animals from other countries. It also features a botanical garden, filled with native plants and trees. Finally, the park has a tram ride and also has a new recreational lagoon that features a snack bar, pedal boats and rides on motor boats. There is so much to do in the park, it definitely merits a visit. The zoo is open from 9am to 6pm, 365 days a year. Click here for entrance and parking fee schedules.
The Parque Zoologico Huachipa (Huachipa Zoological Park) is a newer zoo, and also features much more than just animals. The zoo section features domestic and international animals, and also has a newer exhibit of sea life that houses creatures like sea lions, otters, and penguins. There’s also a petting zoo, where children can interact with farm animals.
Apart from animals, the park has a lot of recreational activities including a children’s play area with a pirate boat centerpiece. There’s also a lagoon with pedal boats and a train that gives rides around the zoo. You can enjoy the botanical gardens, which feature separate areas for cactus and succulents, and even has a bonsai garden. There’s also a restaurant and picnic area for when you get hungry. The Huachipa Zoo is open from 9am to 5:30pm, and entrance fees are S/.10 for adults, S/.6 for children 12 and under. Seniors over age 65 (with ID) pay half price.
Both of Lima’s zoos feature plenty of activities for families. If you’re looking for a pleasant way to spend a day, both offer a chance to learn about animals and more while relaxing in a pleasant environment. One tip – the zoos are very crowded on holidays – you may want to try avoiding them at those times.
